One bite and you’ll be hooked, it’s that simple. This is my all-time favorite cabbage salad, and Im so excited for you to try it!

Cabbage is having a bit of a moment right now, which delights me because it’s so underrated… It is economical, long-lasting in the fridge, and available year-round.  And apparently wrapping fresh cabbage around your knees can considerably reduce arthritis pain, stiffness, and improve mobility…could this be true?!

The dressing alone is worth making. It’s practically drinkable and packed with flavor. With a couple different types of acid and the addition of nutritional yeast, it develops a rich, savory umami note that keeps you coming back for more.

Having crave-worthy foods like this on hand helps deter the mindless snacking that never quite satisfies. (I am so guilty, just look at my Swedish candy stash). This salad lasts all week in the fridge, which makes it perfect for lunches, quick sides, or my style- grabbing a forkful straight from the bowl.

Ingredients:

Green Cabbage – Crisp and hearty, cabbage forms the refreshing base of this salad and softens slightly when tossed with salt and dressing.

Green Onions – Mild and fresh, the white and green parts add brightness and a subtle onion flavor that lifts the whole dish.

Sesame Seeds – Lightly toasted for a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sesame-forward dressing.

Raw Cashews – Chopped and toasted until golden, they bring richness and a satisfying texture to every bite.

Kosher Salt – Used to season the cabbage and help soften it slightly, allowing it to absorb all the flavors of the dressing.

Fresh Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a gentle warmth and balances the savory elements of the salad.

Dressing

Low Sodium Soy Sauce – The salty, savory backbone of the dressing that delivers deep umami flavor.

Toasted Sesame Oil – Rich, nutty, and aromatic, this oil gives the dressing its signature sesame flavor.

Garlic – A smashed clove adds sharp, aromatic depth.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Bright and tangy, it balances the richness of the sesame oil.

Rice Vinegar – Light and slightly sweet, it adds a clean acidity that keeps the dressing fresh and balanced.

Honey – Just a touch for subtle sweetness to round out the salty and tangy flavors.

Fresh Ginger – Warm, zesty, and slightly spicy, it brings vibrant freshness to the dressing.

Nutritional Yeast – Adds a savory, almost cheesy umami flavor that makes the dressing incredibly craveable.

Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the entire dressing and ties all the flavors together with a fresh citrus finish.

How to Make my Addictive Cabbage Salad:

• Halve the cabbage, cut out the core, and chop into 1 or 2 inch pieces. Mine are about 1 ½ inches usually for a perfect bit size. Place the cut cabbage into a large bowl.
• Season with salt (use less & then add more if you need to) and use your hands to mix it in, leaving the cabbage to rest while you toast the nuts and seeds and make the dressing.
• Heat a medium sized shallow pan over medium heat and add the seeds and cashews. Cook, tossing halfway through, for about 5 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Keep an eye out so they don’t burn. Remove from the heat.
• For the dressing- Combine all the ingredients in a small blender and blend until smooth.
• Add the green onions to the bowl of cabbage, which should feel a bit softer to the touch.
• Add the toasted seeds and nuts and pour the dressing over the salad. Toss well to combine and enjoy!

Substitutions:

• This salad is very versatile! If you dont have Green Cabbage you can use Napa Cabbage, Savoy Cabbage, Shaved Brussel sprouts
• You can use almonds or another nut in place of cashews, or if you can’t have nuts throw in some sunflower or pumpkin seeds and toast them with the sesame seeds.
• If you dont have Soy Sauce you can substitute with Tamari or Liquid Aminos.

Commonly Asked Questions:

You can use almonds or another nut in place of cashews, or if you can’t have nuts throw in

some sunflower or pumpkin seeds and toast them with the sesame seeds.